Exposure to sculpture and bronze casting came early in my life when my father and two uncles opened a bronze casting foundry. My Uncle Steve was a sculptor, and I loved visiting the foundry to watch him work. My father was Steve’s art agent, and it became a family tradition to go along with them to art shows where I was fascinated to see the artists and the great variety of their work.

The bronze foundry itself has had a tremendous influence on me. My first glimpse of the glowing furnace and its overwhelming heat are still vivid in my mind. I still remember the exhilaration of watching the molten bronze being poured into ceramic shells. I loved watching all parts of the casting process, but most appreciated the privilege of entering the large room set aside for artists to work on monumental clay sculptures. It was always a joy to see their work at different stages of progression. I remember watching one sculptor, Dennis Smith, as he was working on a large monument to be placed in Japan. He took time to answer my questions and, even as a young boy, I knew he felt strongly about his work. There was nothing else he would rather do than be an artist — a feeling that I would gradually know for myself.

Growing up, my favorite subjects were all art-related. Drawing, painting, ceramics, photography, and woodshop all brought a great sense of fulfillment for me. I enjoyed creating with my hands — giving things form and spirit. It was after my very first sculpture class that I knew I had discovered my future career. I went on to complete my BA in Visual Arts at Brigham Young University.

I continue to participate in life drawing and sculpting sessions held at the foundry. These sessions are a valuable asset in advancing my craft and give me the chance to work from life and learn from many other talented artists who also attend the sessions. I am privileged to work with such great Utah artists as Blair Buswell, Kraig Varner, Jack Morford, Leroy Transfield, and the same Dennis Smith who answered my questions as a young boy so many years ago.

Working as a freelance sculptor, I enjoy every day. I have nothing but excitement for the future.